Dolenjska

The pleasant trails in the scenic landscape of Dolenjska take in numerous natural attractions and vantage points with breathtaking views. Your eyes will feast on the wine slopes, the lush Krka Valley and the mythical Gorjanci Hills as a backdrop, whose crystalline waters are said to help one gain eternal youth. And the water from the Terme Šmarješke Toplice hot spring, whose healing qualities have been known for centuries, will revitalise your body and boost your stamina.

Cycling toursThere are many cycling routes along either side of the Krka River, running through beautiful landscapes and embracing numerous natural, cultural and historical sites. The routes kick off at the Šmarješke Toplice or Otočec Hotels and are all circular, with distances ranging from a few to more than 65 km. The “Šmarješka Kolesnica” route is suitable for children. And so are other marked routes between Otočec Castle and the spa. The route over the seven hills of Novo mesto is suitable for everyone.The length of the circular tour through Kostanjevica na Krki, the veritable Venice of Dolenjska, is a little under 50 km, and from there you can push forward up to Kočarija and Veliki Ban. If you really want to get to know the true gentle hills, then you must do the 65-km Wetland Trail and the 55-km Winegrowing Hills and Wetlands Trail, both of which feature numerous steep but short ascents and descents. A slightly longer climb awaits you on the way to the 928-m-high Krvavi Kamen. There you can stop for a short break at the mountain hut on Gospodična and then head for the youth spring. There are numerous other cycling routes and trails in Dolenjska, where the season never really ends.